EDXRF analysis of local and imported pica soil samples

Abstract

Several studies have implicated trace metal metabolism with some human diseases. Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence(EDXRF)method was used to analyse pica soil samples, which are consumed by some pregnant mothers in Kenya. The levels of potassium, calcium, titanium, manganese, iron, copper, zinc and lead in samples obtained locally and some imported varieties from India are reported. The health implications for consumption of these products are discussed.